Gary Bembridge of Tips for Travellers shares observations, tips and advice for visitors to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
Subscribe free to the show on iTunes, Stitcher Radio or TuneIn Radio.
This show covers among other topics:
Observations

You either love Dubai or you hate it!Some say : Surreal, bizarre , draconian, soulless, superficial Others say : dynamic, bold, modern and adventurous
Mix of conservative and liberal with lots of inconsistencies (e.g. full burka wearing women next to skimply dressed ones and lack of alcohol tolerance but heavy drinking in hotels).
Seen as a shoppers paradise although I am not sure prices are that amazing despite being duty free nature.
Mix of nationalities in the population of around 2,5 million with less than 20% of the population being UAE nationals.
Safe and not lot of petty crime

HistoryBritish controlled the area until 1971 when 6 other states formed UAE (Abu Dhabi, Ajman,Fujairah , Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Qaiwain). Each has lots of autonomy though is a Supreme Council of Rulers that overseas total UAE
Dubai has biggest population and 2nd in size after Abu Dhabi - oil was discovered in Dubai in 1963 turning a quiet pearl diving, fishing and trade port into wealthy  oil producer - but unlike neighbours like Abu Dhabi it does not very large reserves and as will run out the ruling family (Constitutional Monarchy  ruled by the Al Maktoum family) has invested into creating a major hub for finance, transport, trade and tourism and went on vast ambitious program of infrastructure building. It almost came undone in the 2008 crash but neighbouring Abu Dhabi bailed them out.Best time to goHot pretty much all year  roundBest time Sept to MayGetting therePossibly best airline hub in the world ! Cruise lines increasingly calling here and the port is close to townWhere to stayJumeirah Beach areas - where most resort hotels with beaches are More business hotels are on Sheikh Zayed roadGetting around

Drivers generally are poor!
Metro - modern, cheap, air conditioned , easy to work out - smart card tickets - get day pass - ticket machines / signs / on-board voice also in English - some carriages of women and children only at peak times
Monorail from base of the Palm Atlantis - not connected to the metro.
Taxis are cheap and efficient to use - though traffic can be bad at all times of day and night.
Busses  best left to locals.
Cross Dubai Creek on small boats called abras (water taxis).
Hop-on Hop-off bus operated by Big Bus includes tickets into attractions like Dubai Museum, Al Maktoum's house, Arabian dhow, water bus ride and some walking tours

General tips

Remember you are coming to an Islamic country.
Wear respectful clothing (avoid shorts, exposed shoulders and ankles ).
Topless suntanning not allowed.
Avoid public signs of affection like hand holding kissing.
Same sex affection real taboo.
Illegal to drink or be drunk in public - drink driving will get you in prison.
Drugs and pornography laws very draconian and strict - even some prescription drugs are illegal.
Restrictions on some publications and affiliations like Jehovah Witness.
Take care what photograph - do not photograph women in traditional dress without prior permission.
English widely spoken.
Western-style toilets are not everywhere - but are in malls

Tips on must do things to see and doVisit the new iconic buildingsBurj KhalifaWhen opened in 2010 became tallest man made structure - viewing platform on 124th floor. Pre booking is much cheaper but need to do well in advance. Fast Track on the day for immediate entry 400 Dhiramas (about £60 or $100).Burj Arab HotelMost luxurious hotel in world - designed to resemble a sail and has heli-pad above 27th floor. Entry only with a reservation - afternoon tea is classic - strict dress code of smart casual.The Palm and AtlantisMan made reclaimed land - visible from space - 4000 villas each with own beach front - 5000 apartments - restaurants -sports facilities - cinemas -